Dry fire training device

ABSTRACT

A multi-function dry fire training device to be inserted into the chamber of a firearm, which comprises an illuminator for emitting, upon receiving a command from a controller, a beam of visible or invisible illumination from the barrel of the firearm, the beam being parallel to its central axis; a controller for controlling the functionality of the device including illumination of the illuminator, in response to activation of the firearm trigger; an actuator, being electrically connected to the controller, for activating the controller whenever being struck by the firearm striker and a power source for providing DC power to the controller and illuminator.

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a continuation of application Ser. No. 14/868,357filed Sep. 28, 2015, now U.S. Pat. No. 9,766,043, which is acontinuation of application Ser. No. 14/105,156 filed Dec. 12, 2013 nowU.S. Pat. No. 9,163,904, which is a continuation of application Ser. No.13/008,234 filed Jan. 18, 2011, now U.S. Pat. No. 8,734,156, whichclaims the benefit of provisional Application No. 61/296,045 filed Jan.19, 2010. The disclosure of each of these applications is incorporatedby reference herein in their entirety.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention generally relates to a device and system forsimulating live fire training from a wide variety of handheld firearms.More particularly, this invention relates to a processor controlled,light emitting, ammunition for a firearm. This invention also relates toa system for registering “hits” during dry-fire exercises and/or gamingwith any handheld firearm, without changing the feel or the externaldimensions of the firearm.

BACKGROUND

Dry fire training—repeated drawing, aiming and firing withoutammunition—is a practical, convenient way to improve and/or maintainshooting techniques. The practice is limited, however, by the fact thatthe bullet impact point is a mere assumption; thus the trainees and/ortrainers are limited in their ability to evaluate the traineesperformance or/and improve their skills. Furthermore, there has longexisted the need for an apparatus and system whereby a single ormultiple user, or trainer and trainee can readily practice using afirearm without placing themselves or others at risk of accidentaldischarge of the firearm while still maintaining the ability torecognize the “hits.” This safety imperative coincides with an addeddesire to limit the financial burden related to the wear and tear on afirearm, including cost of ammunition and use of adequate facilitiesbrought about by live fire training. In addition, in order to overcomethe location restraints required for live fire training and enable aneffective training alternative, to conducting a training session in anydesired location, such as a private residence.

These considerations have proven to be especially relevant tolaw-enforcement and military personnel, who require a high degree offirearm practice and proficiency. In such situations, “Force on Force”drills pose a heightened risk to users, as the muzzle of firearm pointstoward other users, increasing the likelihood of accidental andpotentially fatal discharge. It is well documented that TrainingOfficers (TOs) have been injured or fatally wounded due to severalloading/unloading procedures, such that a live round reaches the chamberof a firearm without the fellow officer being able to discern that he isfacing a loaded weapon.

In addition, the traditional means of seeking to recognize marksmanshiptechnique errors and resolve them during firearm training, whereby auser at a shooting range fires live ammunition at a target with orwithout the guidance of an instructor, has proven to have severalsignificant drawbacks. During live fire, it is extremely difficult toidentify many of the various marksmanship technique errors related tohow the shooter handles the firearm prior to and while pulling thetrigger. For example, it requires a well-trained instructor to identifya shooter that is surprised or frightened by the recoil of a handgun orrifle, leading to the shooter to develop a habit known as “flinching,”in an attempt to counter the anticipated recoil. This is detrimental tothe correct posture and follow-through of the most critical phase of theshot. Furthermore, when the recoil is eliminated, any other errors inmarksmanship technique are easier to identify and correct. Anotherdrawback is the general inconveniences of accessing the shooting range.The more prevalent of these drawbacks include the above-mentioned riskof accidental discharge of firearms (by the user or others at theshooting range), but also may increase the stress level of the traineedue to the dangers of proximity to live fire training, and to thephysical nature of shooting, i.e., sound and movement.

Accordingly, a need exists for an alternative to traditional firearmtraining which addresses these concerns and maintains the overallbenefit of live fire training.

SUMMARY

Hence, the present invention is directed to a dry fire training deviceand system for conducting and evaluating firearm training with a highdegree of safety and accuracy, and which significantly reduces the wearand tear on the training firearm.

One aspect of the present invention relates to a multi-function dry firetraining device to be inserted into the chamber of a firearm. The dryfire training device may include an illuminator, which upon receiving acommand from a controller, emits a beam of at least one wavelength ofvisible and/or invisible illumination from the barrel of the firearm,the beam being parallel to its central axis. The dry fire trainingdevice also may include a controller to control the functionality (oroperational modes) of the device including illumination of theilluminator, in response to pulling the trigger of the firearm by ashooter. The dry fire training device further may include an actuator,which is electrically connected to the controller, used to activate thecontroller whenever it is struck by the striker. The dry fire trainingdevice also may include a power source to provide DC power to thecontroller and illuminator.

The illumination beam may be comprised of at least one wavelength of IR,UV or visible light. The device further may comprise a collimator tofocus the emitted beams on a target. The illuminator may include a lightemitting diode that emits at least one wavelength of light or a laserdiode that emits coherent stimulated electromagnetic radiation.

In one aspect, the training device may include a hollow body whichcomprises a first casing that includes a first securing mechanism forattaching and securing the first casing to a second casing. The devicefurther may include a second casing to which an illuminator is attached.The second casing may be electrically connected to the first casing.Also, the training device may include an insulating sleeve, for readilypreventing contact of the power supply with the first or second casing,and two spring-like biases situated at opposite sides of the powersupply and on the long central axis of the dry fire training system, toprevent a disconnect when the striker strikes.

Another aspect of the invention relates to the actuator. The actuatormay include a non metallic striking pad which is capable of sustaining aplurality of strikes by the striker, without being pierced. The actuatormay comprise a conductive material which activates the control circuit,an energy absorbing material for dampening strikes, and a bell-shapedabsorbent material with a conductive end pin to contact the face of thecontrol circuit when the striker strikes.

The actuator may be constructed from at least one material sensitive topressure, shock, or mechanical stress such as a piezoelectric material,so that the control circuit can distinguish when the actuator assemblyis struck by the striker.

The actuator also may be constructed from at least one electronic sensorsuch as a vector or vibration sensor in a way that the control circuitcan distinguish when the actuator assembly is struck by the striker. Thecontroller may comprise a microcontroller or a microprocessor, forallowing exact control of the illumination time and delay time. In oneaspect, the illumination time is 1-15 mSec.

In another aspect of the invention, the controller may be programmed toturn on the light with the first shot and turn off the light with thesecond shot, to align the sights and to implement a delay every several“shots,” which simulate a magazine change.

In another aspect of the invention, the emitted light may carrydigitally coded information that modulates the illumination of thelight.

In another aspect of the invention, the illuminator may emit invisiblewavelength to carry coded information, in addition to visible light.

In another aspect of the invention, the controller also may be used torecord the device history data within a memory.

In another aspect of the invention, a group of programs is set to runand determine the functionality and different operation modes of thedevice.

In another aspect of the invention, the actuator may operate as a toggleswitch to initiate changes in the operation mode of the training device.

In another aspect of the invention, the training device further maycomprise (1) a communication port to communicate with the controller andthe memory, to retrieve data, to set functionality programs, and (2) acollimator attached to, or integrally formed with the illuminator, tofocus light and/or electromagnetic radiation emitted from theilluminator.

In another aspect of the invention, the control circuit may be biasedusing a standing flat spring.

In another aspect of the invention, the training device further maycomprise an attachment element to secure the device to different barrellengths using a locking mechanism and a retaining pipe assembly.

In another aspect of the invention, the training device may consist of afront part and a rear part, being detachable from each other, whereindifferent rear parts may include different functionalities and frontparts may include different wavelength illuminators.

In another aspect of the invention, the retaining pipe further maycomprise a threaded connection to allow connection of a modularextension and/or a reversible fastener.

In another aspect of the invention, one or more O-rings may be placedalong the hollow tube, to prevent contact between the barrel and thehollow tube, while installing and using the tube.

DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated herein and constitutepart of this specification, illustrate an embodiment of the invention,and together with the general description given above and the detaileddescription given below, serve to explain the features of the invention.

FIG. 1 shows an exploded view of a dry fire training device of thepresent invention;

FIG. 2 shows a cross sectional view of a firearm with a dry firetraining device and retaining pipe assembly, according to an embodimentof the present invention;

FIG. 3 schematically illustrates the structure of an actuator assemblyused in the dry fire training device, according to an embodiment of thepresent invention;

FIG. 4 schematically illustrates the structure of a collimator used inthe dry fire training device, according to an embodiment of the presentinvention;

FIGS. 5A, 5B and 5C show exemplary embodiments of the electronic circuitof the dry fire training device, according to an embodiment of thepresent invention;

FIGS. 6A, 6B and 6C schematically illustrates the structure of standingflat springs for biasing between the control circuit and power supplyaccording to embodiments of the present invention;

FIG. 7 shows the construction of four separate and autonomous bodies ofthe dry fire training device according to an embodiment of the presentinvention;

FIGS. 8A and 8B illustrate the construction of a retaining pipe with areversible beveled fastener for insertion into the barrel of thefirearm, according to an embodiment of the present invention; and

FIG. 9 illustrates the construction of a retaining pipe and modularextension assembly, according to an embodiment of the present invention.

DESCRIPTION

FIG. 1 shows an exploded view of an exemplary embodiment of a dry firetraining device 1 of the present invention. FIG. 2 shows the dry firetraining device 1 of FIG. 1 disposed within the chamber of a workingfirearm. In the embodiment shown in FIG. 2, the retaining pipe isgenerally disposed in the firearm barrel. One end of the retaining pipeis connected to the dry fire training device to align and secure the dryfire training device within the chamber. The other end of the retainingpipe is connected to a retaining member that is located primarilyoutside the firearm barrel. The retaining member connects to theretaining pipe and the firearm barrel to lock the retaining pipe and dryfire training device centrally within the firearm barrel to achieve apreferred operational configuration. Accordingly, dry fire trainingdevice 1 may be used while situated inside of, and in conjunction with,a handheld firearm 30, which includes a trigger 31, a striker 20 (e.g. ahammer driven firing pin, a spring loaded firing pin, or a static firingpin) and a barrel 33.

Referring to FIG. 1, dry fire training device 1 consists of a hollowbody including a first casing 3 and second casing 4. First casing 3includes a securing mechanism 5 for readily attaching and securing firstcasing 3 to second casing 4. Securing mechanism 5 can include a “screwtop,” quick coupling, coupler, fastener, threading or any other closure.The securing mechanism 5 may be a “screw top,” a quick couplingmechanism, a coupler, or a fastener. First casing 3 has no “ejectionrim” and therefore, dry fire training device 1 cannot be ejected out ofthe firearms while cycling the firearm or while racking the slide,defining dry fire training device 1 as rimless. Second casing 4 includesa complimentary securing mechanism 6 for readily connecting first casing3 to second casing 4. Securing mechanism 6 connects first casing 3 tosecond casing 4. Dry fire training device 1 includes an illuminator 7,accommodated by second casing 4. Illuminator 7 is attached to, orintegrally formed with, second casing 4 and is electrically connected tosecond casing 4. The connection may be a direct electrical contactbetween illuminator 7 and second casing 4. Illuminator 7 includingcollimator lens 8 may be disposed within second casing 4 to protect itfrom being scratched or damaged.

In one embodiment, illuminator 7 may include a light emitting diode forreadily emitting at least one wavelength of light. For example, thelight emitting diode may emit generally monochromatic “red” light andhave a dominant wavelength between approximately 610 nm and 760 nm. In apreferred embodiment, the light emitting diode emits light betweenapproximately 635 nm and 650 nm.

In another embodiment, the light emitting diode may emit generallymonochromatic “green” light and have a dominate wavelength betweenapproximately 500 nm and 570 nm. In one preferred embodiment, the lightemitting diode emits light at about 535 nm.

In still another embodiment, the light emitting diode may emit generallymonochromatic “blue” light and have a dominant wavelength betweenapproximately 360 nm and 480 nm. In yet another embodiment, the lightemitting diode may emit generally monochromatic infra red light greaterthan 760 nm. In a preferred embodiment, the light emitting diode emitslight between approximately 780 nm and 850 nm.

In yet another embodiment, the illuminator 7 includes a laser diode forreadily emitting at least one wavelength of coherent stimulatedelectromagnetic radiation. Further still, it is contemplated that theilluminator may include an organic light emitting diode as a source oflight for the dry fire training device.

Moreover, the exemplary and preferred emission spectra described hereinin connection with illuminator embodiments that use light emittingdiodes apply generally to any device or system that may serve anequivalent function in the dry fire training device. Thus, for example,illuminators using a laser diode, organic light emitting diode, or otherlight emitting device may be used to generate light at wavelengthsdescribed herein in connection with embodiments having illuminatorsbased on light emitting diode technology. Further still, the illuminatormay utilize any suitable device or method for generating emissions oflight as long as the light producing technology provides emissions ofequivalent or similar characteristics as the light emitting diodesdescribed herein.

In addition, illuminator 7 readily may emit light in at least a firstwavelength of light 9 or/and in a second wavelength of light 10. Thus,for example, the illuminator may emit “red” light at a wavelength of 635nm and infrared light at a wavelength of 780 nm. The use of multiplewavelengths of light may provide valuable benefits for a user.

The visible indication of the impact point by using a visible wavelengthis the driver of the user recognition and self correction process, whichis one of the valuable benefits for a user of this device. Additionalbenefits can be achieved by using an array of electronic targets whichmay be interactive to the device indicating various results related tothe performance of the shooter, such as accuracy under time constraints.Such electronic targets would be based on recognizing the light pulse(signal) from the surrounding environment (noise). This task issubstantially more difficult in an environment in which the signal isclose in nature to the noise, such as a flash of a red dot of light infull sunlight. Therefore, emitting an IR (infrared) focused overlappinglight from the dry fire training device 1 will substantially improve theability to construct an “outdoor target.”

Another feature of the dry fire training device 1 is the use of a dualwavelength emitter (both visible and invisible light), thereby allowingvisual recognition of the light and enabling a standard “outdoor”censoring.

Dry fire training device 1 includes a power supply 11, which iselectrically connected to illuminator 7. Power supply 11 may be situatedadjacent to illuminator 7 for readily powering it. Power supply 11includes at least one battery 12, such as an alkaline battery, arechargeable battery, a silver oxide battery, a lithium battery, a leadacid battery, a mercury free battery, an ISO 14000 compliant battery, ora lead free battery. Preferably, the power supply 11 provides betweenapproximately 1.5 volts and 6.0 volts of power. Most preferably, thepower supply provides about 4.5 volts of power.

Optionally, power supply 11 is substantially contained within aninsulator 13 for readily preventing contact of power supply 11 with thesecond casing 4 and/or first casing 3 and/or securer 15, so as to avoid“short circuit.” Power supply 11 may be situated between two spring-likebiases 16 and 17 situated at opposite sides of the power supply 11 andon the long center axis of the dry fire training system 1. This willallow the power supply 11 to move when the firing pad 18 is struck by astriker without the risk of disconnecting the power supply from thecircuitry of the dry fire training system 1. Power supply 11 also maybe, or integrally formed with, a capacitor 14.

FIG. 3 schematically illustrates the structure of an exemplary actuatorassembly 25 used in the dry fire training device 1 of the presentinvention. As depicted in FIG. 3, dry fire training device 1 may includean actuator assembly 25, which consists of a conductive material 20 suchas conductive rubber, an energy absorbing material 19, and a firing pad18.

Energy absorbing material 19 may be a rubber energy absorbing material,a silicon energy absorbing material, or a vulcanized energy absorbingmaterial.

Firing pad 18 may be constructed from a resilient material readilycapable of sustaining a plurality of strikes by a striker, withoutsubstantially degrading the physical properties of striking pad 18and/or being pierced by the striker.

Preferably, actuator 25 acts both as a damper to the striker and as the“trigger” for a control circuit 21.

In another embodiment, actuator assembly 25 may be constructed of atleast one piezoelectric material such that application of mechanicalstress and/or pressure on actuator assembly 25 generates sufficientelectric current to be distinguished by the control circuit 21.

In yet another embodiment, actuator assembly 25 may be constructed of anon-conductive material, such that electricity and/or electric polarityis produced when the non-conductive material is subjected to pressure orstrain sufficient to be distinguished by control circuit 21.

In yet another embodiment, actuator assembly 25 may be constructed of apressure sensitive material, such that conductivity of the pressuresensitive material is achieved subsequent to pressure or strain appliedto pressure sensitive material sufficient to be distinguished by controlcircuit 21, which readily detects a change of conductivity substantiallyconsistent with striking actuator assembly by a striker.

In yet another embodiment, actuator assembly 25 may be constructed of atleast one electronic sensor such as a vector or vibration sensor to beintegrally formed with control circuit 21 such that the control circuit21 will be able to receive the digital information transmitted from anelectronic sensor and to distinguish when the actuator assembly isstruck by the striker.

In use, actuator assembly 25 simulates a firearm primer and may befurther constructed of such materials, so as to substantially reduceimpact of the striker striking actuator assembly 25 upon control circuit21. For instance, actuator assembly 25 may be constructed of a resilientmaterial and may have a mass conducive to energy transfer to actuatorassembly 25, such that only subsequently to the striker strikingactuator, assembly 25 has sufficient energy imparted to be distinguishedby control circuit 21. For example, in a preferred embodiment, theactuator 25 will not impart a distinguishable signal to control circuit21 as a result of racking the slide of the handgun.

By contrast, activation of the functionality of the dry fire trainingdevice 1 may be accomplished by the actual hit of the striker on thefiring pad 18 of actuator 25, which in turn transfers the forwardmovement pressure to the entire upper surface of the bell-shapedabsorbent material 19.

In an exemplary embodiment, the pressure deforms the bell-shapedabsorbent material 19 to collapse toward the control circuit 21, whileabsorbing the force of the impact of the striker. The bell shape of thispart, enclosed within first casing 3, transfers the pressure applied onit toward the outer supporting rim of the control circuit 21, thusavoiding direct impact on the control circuit. Adequate pressure andmovement will bring the conductive end pin 20 located within the bellshaped absorbent material 19 to contact the face of the control circuit21 containing conductive strips which are part of the electroniccircuit, which is monitored by the microcontroller on the controlcircuit. Once the conductive end pin 20 touches more than one conductivestrip, an electrical circuit is closed momentarily to be identified bythe microcontroller which in turn, activates the functionally.Furthermore, the conductive end pin 20 acts as a restrictor to thecollapsing movement of the bell shaped absorbent material 19 thusrestricting the inward movement of the striker in a manner similar to areal primer.

Preferably, the striking pad 18 is made of a non-metal material to avoida process which could occur in metal by the striker known as “shotpeening”. Shot peening produces a compressive residual stress in themetal, resulting in a hardened surface that may damage the striker.Additionally, since the dry fire training device 1 is designed to be acommercial item, introducing a non-metallic part serves the purpose ofdefusing worries regarding the potential damage to one's weapon.

In a preferred embodiment, striking pad 18 is constructed of a resilientmaterial, such as a technical plastic reinforced by glass or carbonfibers, that is readily capable of sustaining numerous strikes by astriker without substantially degrading the physical properties ofstriking pad 18 and/or being pierced by the striker. This activationmethod provides two advantages:

-   -   Eliminates “misfires” which are common to the vibration        activated designs while holstering, racking, handling, hitting a        surface and more, and    -   Actuator 25 acts as a “snap cap” (A snap cap is a device which        appears similar to a standard firearm cartridge but contains no        primer or projectile and is used to dry fire the weapon. Snap        caps usually contain a spring-dampened false primer which        absorbs the force from the striker allowing the user to safely        test-fire the gun without damaging the components) which        protects the weapon's ability to remain intact, in some model        handguns, by preventing weakening and possible breakage of the        striker and increased wear to other components.

Dry fire training device 1 may include a collimator 8 attached to, orintegrally formed with illuminator 7, which is situated adjacent toilluminator 7 for readily focusing light and/or stimulatedelectromagnetic radiation passing through collimator 8. Collimators 8 ofdifferent characteristics can be used as known in the art for producingalternate focusing and/or collimating properties of illumination emittedfrom illuminator 7. Collimator 8 focuses and/or collimates illuminationpassing through collimator 8 into a substantially focused area.Preferably, the focused area of illumination is substantially between0.01 and 0.1 cm in diameter when illuminating at a distance of 10meters.

Collimator 8 focuses and/or collimates illumination passing throughcollimator 8 into a substantially focused area. Preferably, the focusedarea of illumination is substantially between 0.1 and 1.0 cm in diameterwhen illuminating at a distance of 10 meters.

The laser collimator structure is regularly cylindrically shaped withthe emitter placed into one end and the lens at the other end at a fixeddistance. The emitter is mounted on a PCB (Printed Circuit Board) and iscentered at one end of the cylindrical collimator. The lens is mountedin the collimator at the opposite side from the emitter.

There are a few traditional ways to set the lens. The lens may bepressed against the inside of the collimator end by using a springbetween the emitter and the lens. The lens may be enclosed within athreading and the position set with glue. Or, the lens may be set usinga rubber or plastic retainer.

FIG. 4 schematically illustrates the structure of the chosen collimator8. The emitter 26 is placed at one side of the collimator, in the middleof a cylindrical base 27 with an outer threading. A glass lens 28 ismounted and glued to the end of a second cylindrical part 29 which hasan internal threading. Both parts are screwed together 27, 29 while theemitter 26 and lens 28 at opposite sides, to create the collimator 8.

Focusing is achieved by screwing both parts together until the correctheight is achieved and then glued to prevent movement. The entirecollimator 8 then is enclosed within a wrapping sleeve 24 and theelectronic board casted in resin. Advantages gained by using thisarrangement include:

Lens stability: Since the lens is firmly glued to the adjustablecollimator part and the part is glued to the collimator base, there isno possibility for the lens to move (unlike a spring mounted lens, inwhich the lens can simply be pushed in). Therefore, the laser does notlose the focal point or alignment when hit or touched (for example,during cleaning). Because the lens cannot be pushed in or move at all,it is vibration resistant—an important feature for the durability of thedry fire training device.

The mounting/gluing of the lens requires a small surface on thecircumference of the lens leaving the lens almost free of obstructions.This enables a large aperture to utilize a larger amount of the lightemitted from the laser emitter into the beam, in contrast to the examplein which the lens is enclosed within a threading, leaving only a smallsurface of the lens unobstructed.

The laser module is sealed from the PCB side by resin and from the lensside by the glued lens, making it liquid proof unlike other type oflaser modules. This feature is desirable, since the device is likely tobe exposed to various liquids and substances.

The glass lens provides the ability to resist solvents and corrosivematerials and the ability to maintain accurate collimation at a widerange of temperatures.

The accumulation of the above features in one collimator/laser modulemakes it well suited for usage in the dry fire training device.

Returning to FIG. 1, a securer 15 secures control circuit 21 betweensecurer 15 and first casing 3 thereby readily securing control circuit21. Securer 15 is attached to first casing 3 with securing mechanism 5.The dry fire training device may be controlled by a control circuit 21,which comprises a microcontroller. The use of a microcontroller enablesthe control of exact illumination and delay time, as for complex multifunctionalities brought forward for example purposes:

1. Delay: a desired delay is set between the time of hitting the strikerand the illumination of the laser module. The microcontroller“recognizes” the striker strike and “waits” a predetermined time periodbefore activating the laser module. This feature is needed, since astriker mechanism creates a vibration pulse through the firearm from thetime of “striking” the device in the chamber and up to a short timeafter. Attempting to create a steady visual mark at that time span on a“target” by illuminating a focused visible light will result in ablurry/fuzzy mark. By introducing a delay between the striker strike andduring the vibration pulse, and illuminating only after the vibrationpulse is over, a coherent mark is achieved by the illumination. Thisdelay can be set to simulate the actual time it takes a real bullet toleave the barrel, thereby enabling the better simulation of realammunition.

2. Controlling the Illumination time: when a firearm is used, it isconstantly being moved by the user, intentionally or not. Even withexperienced shooters, after pulling the trigger, a movement may benoticed. This may extend the time period, in which a real bullet mayhave already left the barrel. Therefore, a prolonged illumination timemay result in a line rather than a dot mark. On the other hand, anillumination pulse which is too short will not be visible enough to berecognized by the shooter. Therefore, it is important to control theillumination pulse, in order to achieve the best results. For thismatter, the optimum illumination time is 10-15 mSec.

3. Changing illumination time: with regard to the above, there areadvantages for a longer pulse of light. By lengthening the pulse oflight emitted from the device, it can be used as a diagnostic tool torecognize shooting technique errors or for stability training. Asdiscussed above, movement of the firearm while shooting the device witha long time pulse will result in a short line rather than a rounded dotmark. The line's length and direction indicates the nature of themovement of the shooter while operating the firearm (e.g., due toinstability, trigger slapping, trigger pull etc.) and can be used toimprove the shooter's skills.

4. Various functionalities: the controller can be programmed to avarious range of functionality differing from simple pulse illumination.For example, the device can be set to turn on the light with the firstshot and turn off the light on the second shot—such functionality isequivalent to a “bore sighting” device which is used for aligning thesights. Another example is a program that incorporates a few seconds'delay every several “shots,” to simulate a magazine change due to lackof ammunition.

5. User ID and system interface: Digitally coded information can betransmitted by modulating the illumination of the light. A simple binarycode can be implemented simply by turning the emitter on and off withina single pulse. For example, this code can be personalized per device,resulting in a unique ID per device which is recognizable by anelectronic target. This ability also can be utilized by interfacing to asimulator system to encode and enable the usage of the device withinsuch a system.

6. The ability to control multi wavelengths: the different “lights” canbe activated and deactivated according to different functionalitiesneeded:

-   -   a. The invisible wavelength is always on and the other        wavelength light is activated only when the weapon is “shot”        (both can carry information, such as an ID code). This can be        used to analyze the “shooters” behavior and movement.    -   b. The visible light is activated only when “shot;” the        invisible light is activated at the same time and can carry        information, such as an ID code.    -   c. Only one wavelength is activated according to “mode” or the        program running in the microcontroller.

7. Practice History: the microcontroller records the dry fire trainingdevice history within the memory storage. This is used to record data,such as usage, manufacturing info, personal ID or the number of “shots”used. This can be used to recognize the unit, study its usage history orcontrol the life time of the device 1.

8. Operation mode: utilizing the same memory as mentioned above, a“working mode” or program out of a set of more than one program can beset to run and determine the functionality of the device 1. For example,control circuit 21 may contain five different operation modes orprograms. An area in the memory will be read by the microcontrollerduring the operation of the current functionality to determine the restof the behavior of the device. Additionally, accessible changeableparameters can be set in the memory, to determine functionality relatedoperation, such as illumination and/or delay time.

9. Toggle switch: one of the possibilities of operating the above deviceis utilizing the actuator as a toggle switch. Holding it down for a timelonger than a regular striker hit can initiate a program that changesand sets the operation mode. For example, after holding down theactuator for more than one second, the program will initiate the changeof the operation mode and will indicate by flashing the illuminator. Itwill start by flashing the current mode (three flashes for mode three)and will counting with interlaps to indicate the new mode. Oneflash—mode one, two flashes—mode two and so on. The device will remainin the last mode initiated before the user releases the actuator.

10. Communication: by using a communications port, it is possible tocommunicate directly with the microcontroller and the memory storage.Communication allows retrieving or setting a new ID, changingfunctionality, retrieving history, retrieving or changing variables,retrieving or changing manufacturing information, retrieving or changingfunctionality program, and more.

FIGS. 5A to 5C show possible implementations of the electronic circuitof the dry fire training device. In FIG. 5A, the device is divided into3 logical sections, detailed as numbering 1, 2 and 3. Section 1 containsthe illuminator I and illuminator control circuit J. Section 2 containsthe power supply H, and section 3 contains the control circuit for thefunctionality of the device and the actuator. The logical sections arenoticeable in the physical structure of the device.

The relay G, preferably implemented by a MOSFET, has at least 3connected ports numbered 1, 2 and 3. Port #1 is used to control theopening and closing of an electrical connection between ports #2 and #3.The relay G will be set to be in its open state (no connection betweenports 2 and 3) in the idle position of the device. In this position, themicrocontroller A is shown in FIG. 5A. Port 2 of the microcontroller isconnected to one pole of the power supply and port 1 is connected tosecond pole of the power supply via the illuminator control circuit J,which at this point is connected to only one of the power supply'spoles, the one way electrical conductor F, preferably a diode, isallowing the electrical current into the microcontroller A and may beplaced on one of the lines connected to the microcontroller A throughports 1 or 2. In addition, the rechargeable power supply E, preferably acapacitor, is connected to the power supply H and is charging or hasbeen charged. During this position, the microcontroller is carrying outthe set of instructions (preferably a computer program) which is storedin the program memory B and waiting for an indication from theelectronic indicator K or by port 3 or 4. In the event the actuator isstruck by the striker of a weapon, the electronic indicator K providesan indication that is recognized by the microcontroller A. Theindication can be one of several possible indications recognized by themicrocontroller, including but not limited to: a momentary connection,specific timed connection, disconnection, specific timed disconnection,an increase in conductivity, decrease in conductivity, electrical surge,reverse polarity or a data signal. In order to recognize some of theindications, the microcontroller may require an additional component,such as a vector sensor. The microcontroller A then will proceed tocarry the set of instructions from the program memory B suitable to thetype of indication from the electronic indicator K. In the event ofcarrying out an instruction to illuminate the illuminator I, themicrocontroller will control the relay G by using port 6 of themicrocontroller A to be in its closed state (direct connection betweenports 2 and 3), thereby completing an electrical circuit to theIlluminator control circuit J, which in turn supplies power to theilluminator I, which illuminates. The control over the illuminator I isachieved by opening and closing the relay G using the microcontroller A.

During the time when the relay G is closed, the microcontroller A cannotdraw any power from the power supply, since the direction of theelectrical current has now been changed. Instead, the microcontroller Adraws the needed power from the rechargeable power supply E. The one wayelectrical conductor F restricts the reverse current from reaching boththe microcontroller A and the rechargeable power supply E. This designallows using the outer casing body and a single connection to the powersupply to be the sole electrical contact of both the control circuit Jand the illuminator I to the power supply although situated at oppositesides of the power supply and require opposite current, in order tooperate.

FIG. 5B illustrates another possible construction. In this construction,section 1 contains the illuminator I, illuminator control circuit J andthe control circuit for the functionality of the device. Section 2contains the power supply H and section 3 contains the switch L. Thisarchitecture enables combining the illuminator control circuit J withthe control circuit for the device 1. The current is channeled throughthe switch L from the power supply to the conducting body of the deviceand to the control circuit J. When the actuator is struck by thestriker, the switch L will momentarily disconnect the current to themicrocontroller. During the momentary disconnection of the current bythe switch L, the control circuit operates by using the power stored inthe rechargeable power supply. The control circuit recognizes the dropin power in port 3. The microcontroller A then will proceed to carry theset of instructions from the program memory B. It is also possible toaccomplish such functionality without using a rechargeable power supply.The microcontroller will stop working as the current drops and willutilize the “reset” feature to execute a set of instructions as it“wakes up” when power returns.

FIG. 5C illustrates an architecture, in which an additional conductor isadded between the power supply and the microcontroller. Thisarchitecture overcomes the previously described limitation, according towhich the microcontroller and illuminator cannot draw power from thepower supply at the same time.

Thus, almost all training scenarios can be realistically replicatedsafely and trained for many uses, including but not limited to lawenforcement scenarios, military scenarios, sport scenarios, IPSCscenarios, marksmanship scenarios and the like.

A control circuit bias 16 is situated between control circuit 21 andpower supply 11 for readily dampening energy from the striker and forreadily situating power supply 11 to control circuit 21. Control circuitbias 16 is geared toward conductively closing an electric circuit withpower supply 11 and control circuit 21.

Control circuit bias 16 includes a standing flat spring as shown in FIG.6A, which offers a solution to a range of situations, in which there isa limitation of diameter size, space size, height, and place on theboard or other production needs where miniaturization is needed. Byusing the standing flat spring, it is possible to utilize the limitedfree space on a printed board and the limited height to be placed as abattery connector.

Advantages of the standing flat spring 16 over a regular spiral springwhen used on a miniature PCB, as shown in FIGS. 6A, 6B and 6C include:

Easy soldering to the PCB: when soldering a spiral spring to a PCB, itis joined by soldering a section of the bottom surface of the spring tosoldering pads upon the surface of the PCB. It is also common, in orderto increase mechanical durability, to insert a straightened end of thespring through a premade hole in the PCB and to solder it at the base.Since the spring is not applied during the SMD process (unless manuallyplaced), it is extremely difficult to solder the spring to the padsdirectly below the spring. The standing flat spring 16 connection ismade with legs 35 which comply with soldering standards, therebyallowing simple and easy connection to the PCB.

The standing spring can be placed either by SMD or manually on the padscovered with soldering paste and go through the reflow oven forsoldering. It is also substantially easier to manually solder thestanding spring than a spiral spring to the board.

Uses minimal physical place on board: a spiral spring requires a surfacethe size of the entire spiral upon the PCB. This surface is furtherenlarged by the limitation of placing electronic components within aminimum distance of it. The standing spring 16, however, requires onlythe surface size of its legs 35 including the minimum distance neededtimes the number of legs 35. The minimum number of required legs 35 isthree, thus using the surface space of merely three pads. The connectionof the standing leaf spring to the board is strengthened by placing glueat the connection point of the leg 35 to the board. Gluing the legs 35in this manner is possible, since the leg 35 height is not necessary forthe function of the spring and the presence of the correct glue on theboard will not interfere with the other components. In a collapsiblespiral spring, any glue placed at the base will limit the ability of thespring to collapse.

Low profile with long working movement: Another electronic connectionspring type that has a relatively small surface is known as a pogospring. The standing flat spring 16, however, has a substantiallyincreased movement span and strength than any miniature pogo spring.Furthermore, the pogo spring requires a minimum height limited by theheight of the base of the pogo spring. The standing flat spring 16height limitation is as the height of the legs 35 needed to elevate thespring leaf 37 above the components, in addition to the thickness of thematerial (which normally varies between 0.1 to 0.5 mm) thus virtuallyhaving no height limitation. For example, the working movement of astanding flat spring 16 with a total of 2 mm height can easily be over 1mm.

Component protective: By creating a sturdy surface 36 above theelectronic components, the standing flat spring 16 buffers thecomponents from the battery compartment and will not allow the batteryor any other body to be pressed against the components. Furthermore, itis possible to cast resin up to the level of the standing spring'ssurface 36, thus preventing any access or possible damage to thecomponents by an unwanted body.

Spring Strength: The standing flat spring 16 offers the strength of aleaf spring which, in order to be matched by a spiral spring, willrequire a much thicker wire than the thickness of the leaf spring.

SMD compatibility: By utilizing a balanced lifting point, the standingflat spring may be used in the automatic electronic assembly SMDprocess. This is achieved by simply placing the springs in a slottedsurface which acts as a “magazine” and lifting them from the liftingpoint using vacuum tips commonly used in regular SMD machinery andplacing them on the PCB for soldering.

Design flexibility of standing flat spring: As illustrated in standingflat spring shown in FIGS. 6A, 6B and 6C, the standing flat spring 16can be designed for use in different PCB layouts with the ability toplace different numbers of legs 35 of different lengths at differentlocations according to the needed limitations. The flexibility in thedesign allows utilizing the advantage of the small PCB surface spaceneeded to mount the spring in different PCB layouts and sizes. Anadditional flexibility in the design is demonstrated in FIG. 6C, inwhich the means of extending the height and movement of the standingflat spring 16 is demonstrated by extracting a leaf spring 38 out of thesurface of a “base” leaf spring.

The dry fire training device 1 may be constructed out of four separateand autonomous bodies, as shown in FIG. 7:

1. The front part 42 which includes a casing containing the emitter andcollimator and lens.

2. The rear part 40 which includes a casing containing the electroniccontrol circuit, firing cap, and actuator.

3. Power supply 41.

4. Retaining pipe assembly 43, which includes a retaining pipe 45, afastener 47 and, if needed, one or more modular extensions 48.

This foregoing structure enables the following functionality:

1. Enabling replacement parts: The front 42 and rear parts 40 aredetachable from each other, thereby allowing replacement if needed.Different rear parts 40 may include a variety of differentfunctionalities by merely introducing different programming in them.Thus, changing the functionality of the device is achieved by merelyreplacing one rear part 40 with another. Due to the nature of operationof this device, in which a striker repeatedly strikes the firing capsituated in the rear part 40, the rear part 40 is exposed to mechanicalwear or can be digitally limited to a number of “shots.” Therefore, theability to replace this part provides a high benefit to the user. Suchrear part 40 could be also be integrally formed with the power supply41, thus changing the part will have the benefit of replacing the powersupply, as well. On the same basis of replace ability, the front part42, the emitter could be replaced to provide a wide range of wavelengthsor other specialty.

2. Enabling the replacement of the power supply: The power supply 41 canbe easily replaced by separating the front part 42 from the rear part 40and removing the power supply 41 to be replaced or recharged.

Optionally, dry fire training device 1 may be attached to, or integrallyformed with an attachment element 22 for readily attaching a variety ofattachments to dry fire training device 1 to readily enable securing dryfire training device 1 in at least two firearm barrel lengths and/oradding a locking mechanism and/or a safety attachment to the end of dryfire training device 1. Attachment element 22 is selected from the groupconsisting of: a quick coupling attachment, a tapped attachment, ascrew-on attachment and a snap-on attachment. Optionally, attachmentelement 22 includes an indicator 23 responsive to attaching accessoriesto the dry fire training device 1 with attachment element 22 therebyindicating the presence of accessories attached to the attachmentelement 22. Optionally, indicator 23 is a micro switch.

Referring to FIG. 7, retaining pipe 45 may be connected to attachmentelement 22 with the ability to connect modular extensions withattachment 50. Retaining pipe 45 ends with an attachment element 50 toaccommodate a reversible beveled fastener 47. Optionally, the dry firetraining device 1 is integrally formed with retaining pipe 45 longenough to protrude out of the front end of the barrel and containsthreads or another way to connect a fastener.

FIGS. 8A and 8B illustrate the construction of the retaining pipeassembly with a reversible beveled fastener 47 to be inserted into thebarrel of the firearm. With the basic functionality and appearance of aretaining nut, the fastener 47 has a through threading crossing thecenter. Additionally, both sides of the fastener 47 are beveled in aninward angle 51, 52 and the fastener 47 body is hollow on one side 53.The fastener may be installed on the retaining pipe 45 from both sidesof the fastener 47, resulting in the ability to increase the range ofsuitability to different lengths of barrels—as demonstrated in thedrawing by length A, B. The beveled end of the fastener 47 serve thepurpose of self centering the retaining pipe 45 in a barrel 33, as thefastener is tightened into place against the barrel 33 end.

As best shown in FIGS. 2 and 7, O-rings 46 may be placed on theretaining pipe 4 in order to prevent contact between the barrel 33 andthe retaining pipe 45 while situated inside a barrel 33. This served thepurpose of preventing any damage both to the retaining pipe 45 or thebarrel 33, in which it is installed. Also demonstrated in the drawing,is an O-ring 49 installed at the end of the retaining pipe 45 near theconnecting threading to the dry fire training device 1. This O-ring 49will prevent the self tightening and eventually the partial locking ofthe retaining pipe assembly 43 to the dry fire training device 1 as aresult of the vibrations the handgun creates while using the dry firetraining device 1. When assembled as described above, the retaining pipeassembly 43 is used to hold the dry fire training device 1 firmly inplace in the firing chamber of a firearm and provides the followingusages/functionality:

1. Safety: fail safe device—locking the laser bullet in the chamber willprevent accidental loading of a live round into the chamber. Thisfeature allows a wide range of practice drills including magazinechanges.

2. Safety visual indication: the safe nature of a firearm with a lockedlaser bullet in the chamber is visually indicated by the externalretaining fastener.

3. Improve/ensure alignment: the retaining pipe assembly pulls the laserbullet against the cone shaped chamber and forces the bullet to be flushagainst the inner end of the chamber on one side and the beveledfastener on the other side. This will eliminate any tolerance which isnecessary for the easy insertion and extraction of the laser bullet.This enables a high level bore sighting alignment.

4. Eliminate mechanical “exemption”: same as 3 eliminates the phenomenaof vibration of the laser bullet immediately after being hit by thestriker thus helps to eliminating the phenomena of an unclear dot shapelaser projection.

5. Hold in place: in conjunction with the absence of the ejection rim,enables practice drills that involve racking of the slide. Since thelaser bullet is firmly held into place, it will not slide out or movefrom the chamber. Furthermore, there will be no attempt to eject thelaser bullet since it lacks an ejection rim.

6. Fits all lengths: the retaining pipe will generally fit any barrel 33length from 3″ and longer by using the reversible beveled collate andmodular extensions. More particularly, one end of the retaining pipe 45is configured and dimensioned to attach to the dry fire training device1 and the opposite end is configured and dimensioned to connect to theexterior retention member 47. Most preferably, the length of theretaining pipe 45 is sized to fit firearm barrel lengths ranging fromapproximately 2.8 inches to approximately 4.1 inches. In order toaccommodate certain firearm barrel lengths, however, the opposite end ofthe retaining pipe 45 may require one or more modular extensions 48 aspreviously described. In one embodiment, each installed modularextension increases the effective length of the retaining pipe assemblyby about 1 inch.

There are additional ways to keep the “bullet” in the chamber. Forexample:

1. A magnetic assembly may be used to fix the dry fire training device 1in the chamber.

2. A material softer than the barrel 33, optionally plastic, may be usedas a sleeve to cover the front casing 4 to tightly fit in the barrel 33.

3. A dry fire training device 1 integrally formed with a retaining pipelong enough to protrude out of the front end of the barrel 33 and whichcomprises threads or any other way to connect an end fastener.

4. A rubber sleeve or O-ring on the front end.

5. Leaf spring extensions out of the body of the device 1 or out of anattachment, creating pressure between the body of the laser bullet 1 andthe inner surface of the barrel 33.

Additionally, one method of loading the dry fire training device and theassociated retaining pipe assembly 45 into a working firearm may includeplacing the dry fire training device 1 into the chamber of the firearm,inserting the retaining pipe 45 into the barrel of the firearm, screwingthe end of the retaining pipe 45 into the dry fire training device 1,compressing a resilient member between the retaining pipe 45 and the dryfire training system 1, and securing a reversible beveled fastener 47 tothe other end of the dry fire training device 1 to align the retainingpipe 45 with the firearm barrel and fix the retaining pipe to thefirearm barrel.

The above examples and description have been provided only for thepurpose of illustration, and are not intended to limit the invention inany way. As will be appreciated by a skilled artisan, the invention canbe carried out in a variety of ways, employing more than one techniquefrom those described above, all without exceeding the scope of theinvention.

What is claimed is:
 1. A training device for insertion into a firearmchamber comprising: a first casing which comprises a front end whichcomprises a first opening, a rear end which comprises a second opening,and a first attachment structure; an input device abutting the rear endwhich comprises a first component disposed in the second opening forreceiving a mechanical impulse such that the first component is movablefrom a ready position to an actuated position which is spaced from theready position; a signaling mechanism proximate to the first componentsuch that the signaling mechanism transforms kinetic energy into datasignals; a circuit board adjacent the input device; and a securingelement which comprises a second attachment structure such that thesecond attachment structure mates with the first attachment structure tosecure the input device and the circuit board in the first casing. 2.The training device of claim 1, wherein the training device furthercomprises: a second terminal; and the circuit board comprises an inputlead connected to the signaling mechanism for receiving data signals, anoutput lead for transmitting control signals in response to the datasignals, a first conductor for connecting to a first terminal, and asecond conductor connected to the second terminal.
 3. The trainingdevice of claim 2, wherein the second terminal is configured anddimensioned for connecting to a second side of a power source.
 4. Thetraining device of claim 3, wherein the second terminal is a firstspring.
 5. The training device of claim 1, wherein the first casingfurther comprises: an intermediate portion spaced from the front end,the intermediate portion comprising a first outer dimension; a rearportion abutting the rear end, the rear portion comprising a secondouter dimension which is less than the first outer dimension; and ashoulder portion interconnecting the intermediate portion and the rearportion.
 6. The training device of claim 1, further comprising a dampingstructure adjacent the first component such that the damping structurebiases the first component in the ready position and dissipates kineticenergy transmitted by the first component when the first component movesfrom the ready position to the actuated position.
 7. The training deviceof claim 1, wherein the signaling mechanism comprises a conductivemember.
 8. The training device of claim 1, further comprising: a secondcasing having a second longitudinal axis which comprises a front enddefining a front opening, and a rear end defining a rear opening; alight source positioned in the second casing; and a lens adjacent thefront opening.
 9. The training device of claim 8, further comprising afirst terminal and a second terminal wherein the first terminal isconfigured and dimensioned for connecting to a first side of a powersource.
 10. The training device of claim 9, wherein the first terminalis a second spring.
 11. The training device of claim 9, furthercomprising a power supply.
 12. The training device of claim 11, whereinthe power supply is positioned between the first terminal and the secondterminal.
 13. The training device of claim 11, wherein the power supplyprovides power to the light source.
 14. The training device of claim 8,wherein the lens is configured and dimensioned to focus emissions oflight originating from the light source onto a focused area.
 15. Thetraining device of claim 8, further comprising a collimator, thecollimator comprising a third tubular member which comprises an uppersurface, a lower surface, and an inner surface extending between theupper surface and the lower surface, the inner surface having a firstfastening thread.
 16. The training device of claim 15, wherein thecollimator further comprises a hollow insert connected to the thirdtubular member, the hollow insert comprising an exterior surface havinga second fastening thread which mates with the first fastening thread,the lens being fixed between the front opening and the lower surface,and the light source being connected to the hollow insert and spacedfrom the lens by a first distance for focusing emissions of light fromthe light source onto a focused area.
 17. The training device of claim8, wherein the second casing comprises a third attachment structure suchthat the third attachment structure mates with the first attachmentstructure to secure the second casing to the first casing.
 18. Thetraining device of claim 8, wherein the light source comprises a lightemitting diode which emits light having a dominant wavelength of betweenapproximately 635 nm and approximately 850 nm.
 19. The training deviceof claim 8, wherein the light source comprises a laser diode.
 20. Thetraining device of claim 8, wherein the light source comprises a lightemitting diode which emits light having a dominant wavelength ofapproximately 780 nm.